Psychological recreation of overcoming failures and achieving success by young rhythmic gymnasts aged 6-8

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. Performing physical exercises in rhythmic gymnastics requires not only physical ability, but also psychological stability and a suitable recreational environment. The satisfaction of doing gymnastic exercises is an important component of children's success. The aim of this study: to investigate the impact of psychological means of motivation and recreation, including intrinsic and extrinsic factors, on the performance and success of young gymnasts aged 6-8 in rhythmic gymnastics exercises.
 Materials and Methods. A total of 20 girls (employment experience - 2-4 years) aged between 6 and 8 years who were engaged in rhythmic gymnastics at Sports school No. 5 (Kharkiv, Ukraine), participated in this study. The participants were divided into two groups - experimental and control, based on their technical training levels determined by the results of the competition. Each group comprised 10 gymnasts. The research utilized two sets of tests: 1) psychological tests to assess the motivational sphere of gymnasts, including the Sports Motivation Scale and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children; 2) technical training tests, specifically exercises with a hoop. The technical tests were scored by two experienced coaches on a 10-point scale.
 Results. The results of the study showed that the use of psychological training in the training process increased the level of motivation to achieve success. The motivational component of training was found to be closely related to the creation of an appropriate recreational environment, which in turn affected the level of technical performance of "risk" elements with the object among young gymnasts.
 Conclusions. The introduction of techniques and means of psychological preparation for performing complex throwing exercises with objects had a positive effect on increasing the level of motivation to achieve success and overcome failures. This approach helped to improve results when performing complex "risk" elements. The findings suggest that incorporating psychological means of recreation in training programs for young gymnasts can be beneficial for their overall performance and success.